The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria has raised fresh alarm over the continuing killings, kidnappings and displacement of citizens across the country, declaring that Nigeria’s security crisis has reached what it described as an “intolerable crest.”
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ELLAN.png")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
The bishops called on the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies and political leaders to intensify efforts to protect lives and dismantle criminal networks before they carry out further attacks.
The position was contained in a statement titled, “Stop The Slaughter In Borgu And Ukum, Stop The Killings In Nigeria,” signed by the President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Kaduna Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso.
The statement followed reports of the abduction of more than 60 worshippers from a mosque in Borgu, Niger State, and the killing of 47 people in Ukum, Benue State, where another 17 persons were reportedly critically injured.
“With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria once again decries the unabated trail of blood and terror across our nation which has reached an intolerable crest,” the bishops said.
They expressed concern that Nigerians were increasingly vulnerable to attacks regardless of whether they were in their homes, marketplaces or places of worship.
Expressing solidarity with the Muslim community following the reported Borgu abductions, the bishops called for the immediate and safe release of the worshippers.
“We stand in firm solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters in Niger State, and all over Nigeria, praying for the immediate and safe release of all 60 abducted worshippers,” the statement said.
“An attack on any place of worship is an attack on our collective humanity.”
The bishops said the continuing attacks across different parts of the country required more than responses after violence had occurred, urging security agencies to adopt proactive, intelligence-driven operations capable of identifying and dismantling criminal networks before attacks are launched.
They acknowledged efforts already being made by authorities but insisted that government could not relent until the security and welfare of Nigerians were effectively guaranteed.
“The tears of bereaved families in Niger, Benue, and across every geopolitical zone in Nigeria must worry you enough to do everything possible to stop this carnage in our land,” they said.
The CBCN specifically urged authorities to “deploy proactive, intelligence-led security to neutralise criminal hubs before they strike.”
It also demanded the speedy investigation and prosecution of persons responsible for killings and kidnappings, including those alleged to be financing or otherwise supporting criminal groups.
“Bring perpetrators and their sponsors, regardless of their status or affiliations, to justice swiftly, as impunity fuels repetition,” the bishops said.
The Catholic leaders equally addressed those carrying out the attacks directly, appealing to bandits, terrorists, kidnappers and their alleged sponsors to abandon violence.
“To the bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and their sponsors, we plead that you stop the bloodshed!” they said.
“Human life belongs to God alone, and no cause justifies this cruelty.”
Their intervention comes amid reports of another wave of attacks in Plateau State, particularly communities in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas.
At least 25 persons were reported killed in an overnight attack in Plateau on August 18, while other accounts placed the casualty figure from the attack on Bin-Per community in Mangu at between 26 and 28. Houses and farmlands were also reportedly destroyed.
On August 24, two security operatives were also reportedly killed and their rifles taken following an attack by gunmen on communities in Riyom Local Government Area.
Earlier attacks on Berom communities in the state reportedly left two persons dead, another injured and several houses burnt.
The Federal Ministry of Information had separately reported that at least 23 people were killed during an August 17 attack on Jwak Maitumbi community in Mangu, with about 45 residential shelters reportedly destroyed.
Against the backdrop of the recurring attacks, the bishops said Nigeria needed a security strategy focused on preventing violence rather than merely reacting after lives had been lost.
“To those in government at all levels, security chiefs, and political leaders, while we commend some efforts being made, we urge that you do not give up on this responsibility until the security and welfare for the citizens are guaranteed,” they said.
The bishops also urged Nigerians not to surrender to despair despite the security challenges, calling for continued prayers for peace and security.
“Finally, we urge all Nigerians never to lose hope in Nigeria, but to remain steadfast in prayer for peace, security, and divine intervention in our land,” the statement said.
They prayed for the families of those killed, speedy recovery for the injured and the safe return of those abducted.
“May the God of peace restore order to our nation, comfort those who mourn, and touch the hearts of those who inflict pain,” the bishops concluded.
The book also examines Nigeria's legal ecosystem, focusing on the LPELR and NBA AI Guidelines. As a bonus, every purchase comes with a FREE eBook titled: How to Use the AI Features in LegalPedia and LawPavilion.
Ohio Books Ltd praises the publication, stating:
"....this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic."
How to Order:
📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878
📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com
🌎 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access it directly online at https://selar.com/prv626
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq., ACIarb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
_______________________________________________________________________
“Order Justice Omolaye-Ajileye’s Electronic Evidence Books Now” — Essential Guides On Evidence Act, Case Law And Digital Proof
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
